Sonego on cloud nine in Melbourne: "It was time to get out of my comfort zone".

Lorenzo Sonego's daydream continues. The 29-year-old Italian qualified for his first Grand Slam quarter-final by beating Learner Tien.

He will now play for a place in the last four against Ben Shelton, who benefited from the withdrawal of Gaël Monfils in the Round of 16.

In an interview with Super Tennis, the man who had only reached the second week twice in his career (at Roland Garros in 2020 against Schwartzman, and at Wimbledon in 2021 against Roger Federer) savors the moment.

"I did a great job in the off-season, and I feel I've made a lot of progress. My state of mind has certainly improved, but so has my tennis.

I think you always have to evolve and never stop. Age is what you feel inside, and I feel young.

What's more, I broke through to the top level later than others, and that's why I feel I have less experience than players my age.

Each of us has our own story to tell. I've learned from my mistakes and experiences. I've been lucky enough to meet the right people who have helped me take the next step.

My new team, my girlfriend and my family helped me realize that it was time to step out of my comfort zone. It was hard at first, there were a lot of changes and I added a lot of things to my game.

There were doubts too, but with the work I'm doing now, everything seems easier.

Against Shelton, it's going to be a tough and demanding match. He's already had some notable runs in this type of tournament, reaching the semi-finals in New York in particular.

He's a physically strong player, with an excellent serve, an aggressive game and a lot of talent", Sonego elaborated.